Decrease in drug seizures and arrests recorded by PSNI
Date published:
New official statistics published on 30 October 2025 by NISRA statisticians in the Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) indicate that the number of drug seizure incidents recorded by the PSNI has steadily declined from 2023/24 onwards. In the preceding years between 2006/07 and 2022/23 drug seizure incidents demonstrated a mainly upwards trend.
Key figures:
In the months from 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025:
- There were 7,082 drug seizure incidents, a decrease of 571 (7.5 per cent) compared with the previous 12 months.
- Class A seizure incidents increased, whilst Class B and Class C seizure incidents both decreased.
- Cannabis (Class B) remained the most commonly seized drug, followed by cocaine (Class A), and pregabalin (Class C).
- Eight policing districts showed a fall in the number of drug seizure incidents.
- There were 3,118 drug-related arrests, a decrease of 276 (8.1 per cent) compared with the previous 12 months. Seven policing districts showed a decrease in drug-related arrests.
- Despite recent declines, the level of drug seizure incidents in 2024/25 (6,951) remains over two and a half times the level recorded in 2006/07 (2,590 seizure incidents).
- The level of drug-related arrests in 2024/25 (3,128) is almost twice that recorded in 2006/07 (1,709 arrests).
About this publication:
This publication provides summary statistical information on police seizures of drugs, presenting both the number of seizures and the quantity of drugs seized. The number of drug-related arrests is published alongside the drug seizure statistics.
Please note: Figures from April 2025 onwards are provisional and subject to ongoing validation. Finalised figures for the period April 2025 to March 2026 are expected to be published in September 2026.
Further information:
View the full report and data tables: Drug Seizure Statistics | PSNI